The invitation arrived just before dusk.
A palace maid from the Dowager Empress's courtyard bowed low before Shin Gu and delivered the message with practiced neutrality: the Dowager Empress wished to have dinner that evening—with Lady Chen present as well.
Shin Gu's expression did not change.
She folded the invitation calmly, thanked the maid, and dismissed her with a gentle smile. Only after the footsteps faded did she lift her gaze, eyes dark and thoughtful.
"So," she murmured to herself, "the elders finally call."
The Dowager Empress's courtyard was bathed in warm lantern light, incense curling softly through the air. Everything was arranged with meticulous care—an unspoken reminder of authority, age, and power.
Lady Chen arrived first, dressed elegantly in pale silk, her posture flawless. She greeted the Dowager Empress with affectionate familiarity, pouring tea herself as if this were her rightful place.
Not long after, Shin Gu entered.
